In a nutshell
This study examined the effectiveness of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) in predicting cancer progression during active surveillance.
Researchers concluded that mpMRI adds value to biopsy results in identifying the risk of cancer progressing.
Some background
Active surveillance is common in low-risk prostate cancer management. It refers to actively monitoring tumor growth and development without actually administering treatment. Active surveillance usually involves regular biopsies (tissue samples) to be taken from the prostate.
Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) is a non-invasive method for assessing cancer stage or progression. While mpMRI is believed to be effective in the initial selection of men for active surveillance, its value as part of active surveillance has not been fully studied.
Methods & findings
This study examined the records of 49 men with low-risk prostate cancer. All men underwent two sessions of mpMRI (on average 2 years apart), each followed by a prostate biopsy. After the first session, tumors were categorized based on whether they appeared likely to progress.
Between the two sessions, 19 men (39%) experienced a progression of cancer. Of these, 10 cases of progression were visible from comparing mpMRI results and 2 cases were solely identified by mpMRI.
Overall, the accuracy of mpMRI alone in detecting future cancer progression was low. However, when used in conjuction with additional information from the biopsy (such as tumor size or prostate tissue density), cancer progression could be reliably predicted. Prediction of cancer progression was more accurate with mpMRI than without.
The bottom line
Researchers concluded that mpMRI is useful at identifying men with cancer likely to progress when used together with serial biopsy.
The fine print
Larger clinical trials are needed to confirm the preliminary results of this study.
Published By :
Journal of Urology
Date :
Dec 07, 2015
